TAKE 5 BOUTIQUE GRAND OPENING (PHOTOS)

Last night's grand opening of Take 5 Boutique was arguably the biggest Bethesda fashion event of 2012.  That's because, as I mentioned in my first article on it a few months back, it will be a truly unique fashion destination in the DC area.  While many boutiques are chains or consignment shops, and end up carrying the same pieces you could buy down the street, Take 5 will be the exclusive source of international fashion lines you literally won't find anywhere else.

Guests at the opening witnessed a dream Sakina and Mahir Iskender hatched at an Istanbul cafe become reality in America, on Fairmont Avenue.  Entering on a red carpet, attendees got the first preview of what's to come on the racks.  The space itself has been transformed into a posh showroom, but the redesign does not overwhelm the pieces on display.  And rather than rack after rack of the same old apparel, a discerning selection of exclusive brands will give women a shopping experience of discovery, and fashion-forward styles.

Last night's invitation-only event also offered wine, champagne and upscale hors d'oeuvres.

There was also a bit of breaking news:  Sakina announced that she will be designing and launching her own fashion line in the next two years.  That's one more reason Take 5's opening is a major fashion development in Bethesda:  not only exclusive brands, but eventually an in-house line as well.

But while you consider the exciting future ahead for Take 5 Boutique, here are some photos from the night that started it all (more photos and video coming soon, too!):

Walk the red carpet

Take 5 Boutique staff, including co-owner
Mahir Iskender and owner/designer
Sakina Iskender [center]